Assessing sustainable irrigation and soil restoration approaches for controlling soil salinisation in arid regions: Evidence from Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan.
Shirina Turayeva
31/08/2026
Soil salinisation is one of the major problems that pose a threat to crop production in arid and semi-arid areas where agriculture highly depends on irrigation systems. In Uzbekistan, one of the most affected areas is Karakalpakstan due to high evaporation levels, water shortages and the consequences left by the Aral Sea crisis. This study focuses on exploring sustainable methods of irrigation and soil management for preventing salinity problems in Karakalpakstan. This study is based on literature review of current methods for mitigating soil salinization through such measures as drainage, leaching, irrigation, gypsum treatments, drip irrigation, adding organic matter to soils, and using salt-tolerant crops. Moreover, a social survey involving 200 respondents was carried out to test public awareness, observed signs, and solutions concerning soil salinity. From the survey findings, it is evident that 74.5% of respondents knew about soil salinization, while only 37% were aware about solutions. Results also show that more respondents from oasis areas reported signs of soil salinity compared to those from valley areas, but such a comparison is restricted due to the unequal regional representation of the respondents until cross-tabulation was carried out. In general, none of the methods discussed can solve the problem of soil salinization alone. However, an integrated approach that involves drainage enhancement, proper leaching, improved irrigation management, soil management, use of organic materials and salt-tolerant crops is the most appropriate method in addressing the situation in Karakalpakstan.